Crowns and Bridges Columbus Ohio

Dental Crowns and bridges are two of the most common restoration techniques used in dentistry to repair the function and appearance of your smile. While both have completely different procedures and functions, they are both essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful appearance.

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What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown, or “cap”, is placed on your natural tooth and used to restore its appearance. This cap can restore the shape, size, and strength of your smile. A crown is a good option if you have a tooth that has a crack or has been weakened by decay. A dental cap is also a good option for covering a tooth after a root canal. We recommend this option when your natural tooth is still functioning and just needs to be slightly repaired. Dental crowns can also be used as a cosmetic solution. Crowns can be used to change the appearance of an imperfection that doesn’t aesthetically fit your appearance or if you are looking to improve any discoloration you may have.

What are Dental Crowns made of?

Dental crowns are made from many materials. Every situation can warrant the use of a different material. Crowns can use materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or even a combination of these options. We decide which material is the best for your unique situation. In situations where the cap will be able to be seen when you open your mouth, we will custom match the color of the dental cap to the natural color of your smile. All of our crowns are designed custom to each one of your teeth and their shape. This allows us to keep your appearance looking natural and perfect.

How Long Does A Dental Crown Last?

A dental crown can last anywhere between 10 to 15 years. The material that your cap is made of and the type of aftercare you perform can also affect the amount of time a crown can last. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are durable, but they do tend to wear down and chip over time. Metal crowns are very durable and last the longest. This type of cap can last over 20 years.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth that is made to replace one or more of your missing teeth. A bridge is used to replace the look and function of a missing tooth. This can help restore chewing function and can improve your overall oral health. There are a few different types of bridges that are available for you to choose from.

A Traditional Bridge

A traditional dental bridge requires a cap on both ends so it can anchor onto your teeth. The prosthetic is attached in-between two crowns which are then placed on top of your existing teeth. This allows your artificial prosthetic to have the structure that they need for support. This is a great option if you have one or two teeth missing and your natural teeth on either side are in decent shape.

A Maryland Bridge

A Maryland bridge is a good option if you are trying to replace one of your front incisors. This type of prosthetic uses metal wings that will help secure your artificial tooth to your real teeth. The wings will get bonded to the teeth on either side of the prosthetic to hold it in place. This option is only good in areas where there is minimal chewing. The bond is not strong enough to withstand the chewing that is needed in the back of the mouth.

Implant Bridges

Implant bridges are the best option for individuals who are missing many teeth in a row, or their natural teeth are not strong enough for a cap with a prosthetic. We will use small threaded posts and insert them into the root area of your missing teeth. Once the posts have had a chance to heal and fuse with your jaw, a bridge will be secured, and your artificial teeth will be supported by the threads. This prosthetic option takes the longest due to the healing time needed for the threaded post implants. The healing process can take any wear from three to six months or longer depending on how you care for your oral health.

How Long Do Bridges Last?

Dental bridges can last between 5 to 15 years. The lifespan of your bridge is based on the maintenance and care that you provide your mouth. Your oral hygiene can help prevent gum disease and decay around your teeth. Daily brushing, flossing, and regular cleaning are crucial with dental bridges. This can help prolong the life of your prosthetic tooth and make it last as long as it possibly can.

How do you care for Crowns and Bridges?

Proper care and attention is so important for your overall oral health and for the longevity of your crown and/or bridges. This can not only help prevent the need for more dental attention in the future, but it can help you keep your new smile from having further issues as well. It is important to brush daily with toothpaste. You need to make sure to pay extra attention to your gums around the prosthetic or crown. This is where plaque can build up and cause issues in the future. You should be sure to floss twice a day with either traditional floss or a water flosser. This will help clean under the artificial tooth and the area around it. Lastly, it is always important to use a good mouthwash to help reduce the growth of new plaque and to help strengthen your smile. All of these steps will keep your smile looking fresh and help you avoid any further dental issues.

The Installation Process

The procedure for a crown or a prosthetic tooth can vary depending on the specific type of fix the patient is getting. We will first begin by assessing your mouth and checking to make sure the area is clean and ready for an impression. We will then use molding material to make an impression for a crown or prosthetic tooth. Depending on your service, we may place a temporary crown or prosthetic in place during the waiting period for your cap or prosthetic to be created. We will take the impression that was made and use it to create a custom cap or prosthetic tooth, so it perfectly sits with your appearance. Once created, we will work on installing your new smile so you will look as good as new. In most cases, you will be awake. Depending on how your cap or prosthetics need to be installed, we may use local anesthesia to numb the area, so you feel no pain. From there, you will be able to leave the office with your new found confidence and we will check the condition of the cap or prosthetic during your next regular dental cleaning. If you have any discomfort or if there are any issues, please call our office so we can correct and fix any issue.

Did you chip, break, or lose?

Accidents happen all the time. We understand the urgency that comes with repairing or replacing teeth so you can have your appearance back to normal. At Buckeye Dental, we always have a dentist available to repair or replace your smile whenever there is an emergency. We service the Columbus, Ohio community and are open during the week and on weekends for quick fixes that will help you get your confidence back in no time. Our dentistry services are available for those who need an immediate fix, as well as individuals who are just ready to repair something they have been putting off. We are open and ready to show all the options that are available to you. If you have any additional questions or concerns about dental crowns or a prosthetic tooth, please feel free to reach out. Our dental team has the knowledge to answer any questions you may have, and we will walk you through the entire process. We are here to provide you immediate service for any dental emergency so you can have your confidence. Give Buckeye Dental a call today and we will work with you to get this quickly fixed!